Dalglish has also been greatly impressed by the managerial exploits of Motherwell gaffer Stephen Robinson. The Northern Irishman has steered ’Well to a current position of fifth in the Scottish Premiership, as well as seeing off Morton, Ross County, Aberdeen and Rangers to seal their berth in the Betfred final.

“He’s got to get a bit of credit,” Dalglish said.

“You’ve got to give them credit when they’re winning because they get plenty of abuse when they are getting beat.”

If Motherwell are to spring a surprise in the final they’ll have to topple Brendan Rodgers’ all conquering Celtic outfit who have just gone on a 63-game unbeaten run to break a 100-year-old record.

Dalglish said: “This team have been brilliant and have played some lovely football.

“Last year they got to the Champions League section and finished bottom and I don’t think that will happen this year so that’s progress.

“It is a shock if they don’t win domestic titles but to get through in Europe is success.”

McDonald’s Head of Scottish Football, Kenny Dalglish, was speaking as he handed over a brand new kit to Blantyre Soccer Academy, courtesy of McDonald’s Kit Scheme which has now given away 250,000 free kits.